In Gloomy Chicago Bears Season, Jerrell Freeman Shining Brightly
Jerrell Freeman’s play has been a big boost for the struggling Chicago Bears.
There haven’t been a lot of positives for the Chicago Bears thus far in 2016. An 0-3 start, an undisciplined team, a rash of injuries and a struggling offense has left the team winless and looking for answers. Fans and analysts are questioning almost every position on the field, but the one place they aren’t is at inside linebacker where Jerrell Freeman has been as good as advertised.
The defense is banged up and hasn’t performed up to Vic Fangio’s standards, but Freeman continues to shine for Chicago. In just three games, Freeman has tallied 34 tackles, 4 that have gone for losses. He’s on pace for 180 tackles and 21 tackles for a loss. Both would be career highs. Freeman has brought pressure on the QB during blitz packages. Has had solid coverage in the passing game and of course has been tremendous against the run.
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Freeman was brought over from the Indianapolis Colts on a three-year deal. Analysts applauded the decision to bring him in but he was largely considered the afterthought to the Bears big addition, Danny Trevathan.
While Trevathan is one of the Bears that has missed time due to injury, when he was on the field, Freeman was the superior player. Freeman has covered the field like a missile. His speed and strength has helped him dominate opponents in every aspect of the game.
While Freeman’s play has been tremendous, he’s also taken on the role of team leader. Freeman is a veteran that the younger players can emulate. He speaks well and can handle the media scrutiny, especially when the team is struggling and there isn’t a better player in the NFL that also fits the expression “lead by example.”
Freeman’s energy is unmatched and his motor never stops. The Bears could be leading by ten, or trailing by two touchdowns, Freeman’s play is unwavering. He is a true professional and is without question the best addition Ryan Pace has made to the Chicago Bears.
That isn’t to say that Leonard Floyd or Kevin White may one day be superior players or that Pernell McPhee hasn’t been a great addition to the club when he’s on the field. But what Freeman embodies- his spirit and energy- would be an asset to any team and Bears fans should be thrilled he is donning the navy and orange.
Bill Zimmerman is an editor and featured writer for FanSided‘s BearGogglesOn. Like his Facebook page or follow him on Twitter for more news and interaction.